Segment:
Compact Executive Sports Sedan/Coupe
Performance Focus:
High-performance variant of the standard BMW 3 Series (E36), emphasizing driving dynamics, engine power, and track-capable features.
Key Competitors:
Porsche 968, Chevrolet Corvette C4, Toyota Supra Turbo (Mk IV), Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4
Driving Experience:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, powerful inline-six engines, precise steering, and engaging driving dynamics, often lauded for its road and track prowess.
Distinctive Elements:
Unique M-specific aerodynamic body kit, sport-tuned suspension, M-styled interior elements, and significantly more powerful engines than standard E36 models.
Primary Coverage:
North American Market (US/Canada) M3 Models
Specific Regions Covered:
USA, Canada
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2000+ (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
File Format Details:
Searchable text, hyperlinked sections for easy navigation, printable pages.
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system, engine management (DME), transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic and parking), wheel bearings, ABS
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power distribution, starting and charging system, body electrical controls, climate control, SRS (airbag) system, central locking, power windows/mirrors
Body And Trim:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, convertible top (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-I and early OBD-II for later models), diagnostic connector locations, component testing procedures
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of specialized BMW tools required for specific repairs and adjustments
Level Of Detail:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
2990 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 85.8 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Horsepower:
240 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
Engine Code:
S52B30US (1996-1998)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
86.4 mm x 85.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
240 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
236 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Primary Engine 1998-1999 (Limited Us Market S52B32Us)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
3152 cc (3.2 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
86.4 mm x 91.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Horsepower:
295 hp @ 7400 rpm (approximate, actual figures can vary)
Torque:
236 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (approximate)
Redline:
7000 rpm (S50B30US), 7200 rpm (S52B30US), 7500 rpm (S52B32US)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Engine Management (DME), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)
ECU:
MS41.0 (1996+), early models might use variants of MS41
Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 420G)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary by model year and engine, consult manual for exact figures.
Automatic Features:
Adaptive shift logic, Sport mode.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends synthetic manual transmission fluid (e.g., Castrol BOT 341 or equivalent) or ATF Dexron III for some variants. Consult manual for specific type and quantity.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent. Capacity approx. 8-10 liters.
Length:
4433 mm (174.5 in)
Height:
1336 mm (52.6 in)
Wheelbase:
2700 mm (106.3 in)
Length:
4433 mm (174.5 in)
Height:
1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
2700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight Coupe:
Approx. 1510 kg (3330 lbs)
Curb Weight Convertible:
Approx. 1680 kg (3705 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Consult manual for specific GVWR
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Wheel Size Standard:
17 x 7.5 (front), 17 x 8.5 (rear)
Tire Size Standard:
235/40ZR17 (front), 245/40ZR17 (rear)
Trunk Volume Coupe:
Approx. 0.41 m³ (14.5 cu ft)
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Not directly comparable to modern standards due to differing testing methodologies; generally considered robust for its era.
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) available on some models.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System).
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.
Audio System:
Factory BMW Professional RDS stereo system with CD changer capability. Options included premium sound systems from Nakamichi or Harman Kardon on later models or as optional upgrades.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with cabin microfilter.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Limited Slip Differential:
M Variable Lock Differential (M-VLD) standard on most models, providing up to 25% lockup for improved traction.
Early Systems:
No integrated Bluetooth or advanced connectivity features as found in modern vehicles. Some models offered early forms of cellular phone integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (100,000 km). Refer to manual for exact type and gap.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-98 or Longlife-01 specification synthetic oil, viscosity grade typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. Consult manual for precise BMW approval number.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW approved equivalent.
Vanos System:
Variable valve timing (VANOS) system can develop issues with seals (O-rings) causing rough idle, loss of low-end torque, and reduced performance. Rebuild kits are available.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pumps, especially early plastic impeller models, can fail.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or tear from the chassis due to stress, especially on track-driven cars. Reinforcement kits are common.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many cars of this era, aged wiring, ground points, and specific modules (e.g., ABS module, instrument cluster) can be prone to intermittent issues.
Clutch Release Bearing:
The clutch release bearing is a common wear item, and failure can result in noise or difficulty disengaging the clutch.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators are a frequent failure point, often due to plastic components breaking.
Bmw M Division:
BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) is BMW's division responsible for high-performance vehicles, drawing from motorsport expertise.
E36 Generation:
The E36 generation of the 3 Series was produced from 1990 to 2000. The M3 variant was introduced in 1992 for the European market and 1995 for the North American market.
Us Market Introduction:
North American M3 models initially featured a detuned version of the European S50B30 engine (designated S50B30US) due to emissions regulations and US market preferences, later receiving the S52 engine.
Production Period:
1992-1999 (globally). North American production primarily from 1995-1998.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Munich and Regensburg)
Sales Volume:
Significant sales numbers, making it one of BMW M's most successful models.
Automotive Press Acclaim:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and driver engagement. Often cited as one of the best driver's cars of the 1990s.
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run.
Performance Metrics:
Highly rated for acceleration, braking, and skidpad grip compared to its contemporaries.
Manufacturer Standards:
Built to BMW's exacting standards for quality, durability, and performance.